Teddy promised to inquire, and then advised Tim to have a look at the grounds before business began to be rushing, and the clerk was glad to take advantage of the proposition.
He started off with the air of one who owned the entire inclosure, and was hardly lost to view amid the fast-gathering throng when Teddy was literally dazed by seeing Long Jim, the very man who had robbed him in Waterville, lounging along toward his stand.
Not until the fakir stood directly in front of the boy did he appear to recognize him, and then he would have turned quickly away but for the latter's cry:
"Somebody hold that man till I get a constable! He stole my money."
Realizing that a flight across the grounds with hundreds of men and boys crying "Stop thief!" in full pursuit would be disastrous, Long Jim turned to face his young accuser.
"What do you mean by saying such a thing?" he asked, angrily. "If you wasn't so small I'd make you eat the words."
"I was big enough for you to steal from, and I want my money."
It was only natural that a crowd should gather after such an accusation, and Long Jim looked around for some means of escape, but, realizing that he could not well get away while so many were near, he stepped close to Teddy, as he whispered:
"If you say another word I'll smash your face, you young whelp! Hold your tongue if you want to leave here alive."
"I'll say exactly what's true. Give me my money, or I'll find some one to have you arrested!"